This nutrient-rich quinoa salad combines protein-packed ingredients like black beans and avocado, ideal for cancer patients. Its origins lie in the fusion of Latin American and modern health-conscious cuisine.

Quinoa, native to the Andes region of South America, has been a staple food for centuries, known for its nutritional value. The incorporation of avocado, black beans, and lime juice reflects a contemporary twist on traditional Latin American flavors, catering to modern dietary needs and preferences, particularly for those undergoing cancer treatment.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup quinoa

- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

- 1 ripe avocado, diced

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- Juice of 2 limes

- Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh sieve.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and water is absorbed.

4. Fluff quinoa with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

5. Add black beans, diced avocado, and halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl.

6. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving. Enjoy your nutritious quinoa salad!

Nutrition Value:

1. Quinoa (1 cup cooked):

- Calories: Approximately 222 kcal

- Carbohydrates: About 39 grams

- Protein: Around 8 grams

- Fat: About 4 grams

- Sodium: About 13 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and folate.

- Nutritional Benefit: Quinoa is a gluten-free grain rich in protein and fiber, providing essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, promoting digestive health and providing sustained energy.

2. Black Beans (1 can, drained and rinsed):

- Calories: Approximately 210 kcal

- Carbohydrates: About 40 grams

- Protein: Around 15 grams

- Fat: About 1 gram

- Sodium: About 475 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Vitamins and Minerals: High in fiber, folate, iron, and potassium.

- Nutritional Benefit: Black beans are a low-fat source of plant-based protein and fiber, aiding in digestion, heart health, and blood sugar regulation.

3. Avocado (1 ripe avocado, diced):

- Calories: Approximately 234 kcal

- Carbohydrates: About 12 grams

- Protein: Around 2.9 grams

- Fat: About 21 grams

- Sodium: About 10 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, and folate.

- Nutritional Benefit: Avocado is a nutrient-dense fruit rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting heart health, eye health, and weight management.

4. Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved):

- Calories: Approximately 27 kcal

- Carbohydrates: About 6 grams

- Protein: Around 1 gram

- Fat: About 0 grams

- Sodium: About 6 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and lycopene.

- Nutritional Benefit: Cherry tomatoes are low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting skin health, immune function, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

5. Lime Juice (Juice of 2 limes):

- Calories: Approximately 20 kcal

- Carbohydrates: About 7 grams

- Protein: Around 0.4 grams

- Fat: About 0 grams

- Sodium: About 2 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and folate.

- Nutritional Benefit: Lime juice is a low-calorie source of vitamin C and antioxidants, aiding in digestion, immune support, and skin health.